Nearly every home has mold and some types of mold can be dangerous. Mold can cause health problems as well as damage to the building. A mold inspection can help you to prevent larger problems by catching and identifying mold in the early stages.
Hazards of Mold
Though many kinds of mold are harmless, toxic mold can make you and your family sick. It can cause rashes, chronic fatigue, coughing, sneezing, and persistent headaches. More severe cases of mold poisoning can result in nausea, vomiting, and bleeding in the lungs and nose. If you suspect your home of having mold and are experiencing these symptoms, you should definitely call in a professional.
Identifying mold in the early stages can help you to take care of a small problem before it becomes a large problem. Besides the health risks associated with the presence of mold, you can prevent extreme damage by finding a mold infestation before it grows.
What is a Mold Inspection?
There are several techniques used in mold inspection. When mold is not visible, a thorough visual inspection and air test are typically used. This involves using a machine that traps airborne spore particles. The sample is then sent to a lab, where they analyze any present mold spores. Your mold inspector will have the knowledge necessary to determine what areas are most likely to contain mold.
Substance samples are another technique used to analyze mold. These samples are more effective if mold has not yet become airborne. Substance samples can be taken using bulk samples, tape samples, or swab samples. Bulk samples involve sending in a physical piece of the infested area to a lab. Tape samples involve pressing a piece of tape over the infected area to collect spores and sending it to be tested in a lab. Swab samples involve rubbing a cotton swab over the infected area and sending the swab in to a lab.
In general, obtaining a general assessment of the air quality is a good idea, so you can ensure that your family is breathing quality air.
When You Should Get a Mold Inspection
There are several instances in which you should consider getting a mold inspection. You should obtain a mold inspection if:
- You are participating in a real estate transaction. Whether you are buying or selling, a mold inspection is a good idea. Alleviate any mold-related concerns early on.
- You have had recent plumbing leaks or other water issues. Mold can grow anywhere dampness occurs, so problems with the plumbing can increase your risk of a mold infestation.
- You have just had a mold removal procedure done. You want to confirm that the mold infestation has been successfully removed.
- You are experiencing allergy-like symptoms that occur in one room or only within your home.
- Your home has a musty smell with no visible mold.
Mold can cause an array of problems and the easiest solution is prevention. Ensure that your family is protected from the health risks associated with mold and prevent damage caused by a mold infestation. If you expect that your home may contain a mold infestation, contact us at North Star Home Inspectors to schedule your mold inspection today!